Iran officially commenced six days of public funeral ceremonies for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, according to state television. Millions of Iranians are expected to pay their respects at the Grand Mosalla religious complex in Tehran, where Khamenei's coffin will lie in state until Monday.
Details of the Funeral Ceremonies
The ceremonies will feature Khamenei's coffin displayed at various locations, including Qom, a holy city for Shiite Muslims, and Mashhad, his hometown, where he will be buried on Thursday. Security measures have led to the closure of Iran's airspace and many streets in cities where the procession will occur.
Thousands of mourners, many carrying red banners symbolizing vengeance, filled the courtyard of the Grand Mosalla as they awaited the arrival of Khamenei's coffin. The funeral is expected to draw significant attention, with international guests in attendance.
International Attendance at Khamenei's Funeral
Among those paying their respects are foreign dignitaries such as Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President, who attended on behalf of President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, He Wei, vice chairman of China's National People's Congress, and Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, represented their respective countries.
